Tom Kitchin is a Michelin-starred chef renowned for his innovative approach to Scottish cuisine, emphasizing the use of the finest, freshest local and seasonal produce. His culinary philosophy, 'From Nature to...
Insights
SteakhouseSeafoodFrenchLocal ModernVegan-friendlyFine diningDinnerBrunchFine DiningFarm To Table
Last updated: 9/26/2026, 4:39:01 AM
Key Information
The Kitchin is a Michelin-starred restaurant in Leith, Edinburgh, known for its contemporary Scottish cuisine that emphasizes the finest seasonal ingredients. It offers an exceptional dining experience with a focus on modern British dishes influenced by French techniques.
Customer Perception
Customers consistently praise The Kitchin for its exceptional food, attentive and friendly service, and sophisticated ambiance. Many highlight specific dishes like the scallops, halibut tartare, and soufflé. The restaurant is also commended for its ability to accommodate dietary needs, particularly for vegans. Some reviews mention the chef's personal touch, while one reviewer felt the hospitality was more of a branding exercise.
Additional Details
The restaurant features an 'open' kitchen where diners can observe chefs at work. It is located in the historic Port of Leith.
Great dining experience. We had the premiere tasting menu. All courses were perfectly prepared. The scallop course was the best but all others were excellent. The souffle was the best I have ever had. Tom was working the kitchen and came out and greeted the tables at the end of the night. Nice touch and much appreciated.
Amazing restaurant with high attention to detail in every aspect of the operation. The venue is a combination of Scottish-Nordic. The staff is solicitous and clearly well trained. We were alone when we wanted to be, but at the same time we were well attended and not a moment passed where service was unavailable. The food is superb. We particularly enjoyed the Scallops, the Lobster, the chocolate caramel desert was incredible, and the wagyu tartar fresh and full of flavor. The canapé and tomato amuse bouche were delicious. The chef and eponymous owner, Tom Kitchin, is very personable and personally introduced himself to every diner in the restaurant. A fantastic dining experience, great for special occasions and any time you’re looking for fine dining. The drink and wine menus are extensive, and the drinks — all with special “house” touches were delicious. Not inexpensive, but all fair for the experience.
2
Please see why I gave a two star although their food, services and atmosphere in high standard.
We have visited The Kitchin three times for lunch. Overall, the whole dining experience was highly satisfactory, with spacious seating and a lovely ambiance.
As for the food, their beef tartare is hands down the best I’ve ever had—the accompanying garlic crisps perfectly elevated the flavor, the seasoning was light, and the beef was exceptionally fresh. The main courses had a bit of an Eastern influence; the pork dish I ordered featured Asian sauce, which enhanced the flavor, though as an Asian, it felt a bit ordinary to me—just simple, tasty pork. The famous soufflé, however, was absolutely delicious.
While Chef Tom Kitchin always comes out to greet tables and make small talk, our opinion changed during our third visit. When we called him by name, he simply stared back at us with a cold, distant look. It became clear to us then that the hospitality felt more like a calculated branding exercise rather than genuine warmth from a passionate chef. Sadly, we haven't been back since.
(PS- it’s a good decision to close down their another restro Kora - food is suck, salty, and way too expensive for below standard food)
5
Best in Scotland! Chef Tom himself took time to step out of the kitchen and meet us. Wonderful experience beginning to end. The prestige tasting menu with the wine pairing was fun and full of surprises. Service was excellent all around, the sommelier was very friendly and explained our pairing so well. We will be back on our next trip to Scotland!
5
Loved this place. The service for me is spot on attentive and friendly, and a genuine passion for the food and wine shines through.
The food was exquisite be it the light fresh touch of the Halibut tartare or the hearty depth of the duck leg pie. The wine pairing was spot on, Worth a visit if in Edinburgh or a make a special visit you won't be disappointed.